Update at 07:00

Earlier advice for people living near The Drive in Longfield, near Dartford, to close windows and doors has been lifted, and evacuated residents will begin returning to their homes shortly.

Firefighters have made the scene safe, and are damping down remaining hotspots. A garage and a car have been destroyed by the fire. 

There are no reported injuries and cause is not yet known.

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People living in the area surrounding The Drive in Longfield, near Dartford, are advised to close windows and doors while firefighters respond to a fire within a domestic garage.

Eighteen homes closest to the incident have been evacuated as a precaution because gas cylinders are involved in the fire, and the local authority has set up a nearby rest centre. 

Four fire engines and a bulk water carrier are in attendance, and crews are working to put the fire out and cool the cylinders to make the area safe. 

KFRS’ volunteer response team and Kent Police are also at the scene supporting affected residents. 

Please share this information with loved ones who live in the surrounding area, who may not have access to the internet.